Storage container with inventory control

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods of the invention relate to managing an inventory of items within a storage container. A storage container can house one or more items for distribution among one or more users such as, for instance, employees. The storage container discussed herein provides authentication of a user, tracking of the inventory each user removes or returns, video/image capture of user during access of the storage container, wireless tracking of items housed within the storage container, among others.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/137,056, filed Apr. 25, 2016. Application Ser.No. 15/137,056 is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S.Non-provisional application Ser. No. 14/699,695 (now U.S. Pat. No.9,349,113), filed on Apr. 29, 2015, and entitled “STORAGE CONTAINER WITHINVENTORY CONTROL.” Application Ser. No. 14/699,695 is acontinuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of U.S. Non-provisionalapplication Ser. No. 14/036,012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,098,825) filed Sep.25, 2013, and entitled “STORAGE CONTAINER WITH INVENTORY CONTROL.”Application Ser. No. 14/036,012 is a non-provisional of and claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/805,350 filed Mar.26, 2013, and entitled “STORAGE CONTAINER WITH INVENTORY CONTROL.” Theentireties of each of the aforementioned applications are incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate generally tosystems and methods for inventory management in an environment, and morespecifically, relate to a powered storage container for managinginventory items.

Discussion of Art

A variety of professional and other environments rely on a diverseassortment of inventory. From pens and pencils, which may be stocked inthe hundreds, too expensive or specialized electronic equipment sharedbetween a group of workers, it is important for organizations or evenindividuals to track and evaluate supplies or equipment. Traditionally,supplies are kept in open areas, where anyone may remove or utilizethem, or secured areas, which require a specific person to controlaccess. In open areas, easy access to supplies may encourage theirmisuse or loss, increasing costs and the burden of managing supplies. Insecure areas, key personnel who frequently access inventory may beinconvenienced, inventory may not be immediately available as-needed,and additional personnel is required to control access. An alternativearrangement can be for individuals to seek their own supply, which isless efficient than ordering in bulk for a group, and either encumbersindividuals with the expense of furnishing their respective inventoryitems at retail cost or creates additional paperwork and effort forreimbursement.

Existing technologies attempting to automate such management are complexand expensive. They typically rely on expensive or custom hardware andsoftware, are error-prone, and are frequently limited to specific areasand difficult to move. Further, existing systems do not positivelyidentify each user, which limits the resolution of inventory managementdata and increases the likelihood of misuse or abuse by individuals. Inaddition, existing systems are complex and cumbersome, and thus accessto inventory is tedious, frustrating, and wasteful.

Accordingly, it may be desirable to have systems or methods for managingan inventory that differs from those systems and methods that arecurrently available, for example, to reduce cost, improve ease of use,affirmatively identify users interacting with inventory, increase systemflexibility after deployment, and decrease the time required to access,remove, or replenish inventory properly. Such examples arenon-exhaustive and non-limiting, and the systems and methods describedherein will include other benefits and possess other motivations thanthose expressly listed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In an embodiment, a system is provided that includes a storage containerthat houses a first item and a second item, wherein the first itemincludes a first amount and a second item includes a second amount andthe first item and the second item are non-medical related. In theembodiment, the inventory system can further include a verificationcomponent that is configured to receive a portion of data from a userand a lock mechanism for the storage container that secures an accessthereto based upon the portion of data from the user. The inventorysystem further includes a camera system that provides a first camerafocused on the user and a second camera focused on at least one of thefirst item or the second item. In an embodiment, the system can includeat least four (4) cameras in which one camera is positioned and focusedon the user accessing the storage container and the three (3) camerasare focused on sections of the storage container that includes items(e.g., on each shelf, among others), and all user motions around thoseitems.

In the embodiment, the inventory system can include a controllercomponent that is configured to record media from the first camera andthe second camera upon verification of the portion of data from the userand a wireless scanning device that provides a scan of a portion of thefirst item or a portion of the second item to indicate a removal fromthe storage container. The controller component monitors at least one ofthe first amount of the first item or the second amount of the seconditem based on at least one of the scans or recorded media and thecontroller component stores at least one of the portion of data, thescan, or the recorded media.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which particularembodiments and further benefits of the invention are illustrated asdescribed in more detail in the description below, in which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an embodiment of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an embodiment of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an embodiment of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a block diagram of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a block diagram of components used forinventory management;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a block diagram of a computing environmentfor use herewith;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of an embodiment of a system for managing aninventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a front view of an embodiment of a systemfor managing an inventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a rear view of an embodiment of a systemfor managing an inventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a side view of an embodiment of a systemfor managing an inventory of items for an environment;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a top right perspective view of anembodiment of a system for managing an inventory of items for anenvironment;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a bottom left perspective view of anembodiment of a system for managing an inventory of items for anenvironment;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an embodiment of shelf system for storagecontainer;

FIG. 15 is a front view of the container having a magnet attached;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the container having a magnet attached;

FIG. 17 is a top view of the container having a magnet attached; and

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the container having a magnet attached.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the invention relate to methods and systems for managingan inventory of items within a storage container, wherein the inventoryof items are non-medical related. A storage container can house one ormore items for distribution among one or more users (e.g., employees,members, students, volunteers, contractors, and others). The storagecontainer discussed herein provides authentication of a user, trackingof inventory that each user removes or returns, video/image capture ofuser during access of the storage container, wireless tracking of itemshoused within the storage container, among others. The storage containercan provide management of items within an environment by tracking eachuser and items consumed, used, removed, and/or returned. In addition,the storage container and/or interfaces associated therewith can enableusers (e.g., administrators) to add or remove items of the environmentfrom the container to effect detailed, accurate tracking of particularitems and dynamically manage inventory control efforts.

With reference to the drawings, like reference numerals designateidentical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. However,the inclusion of like elements in different views does not mean a givenembodiment necessarily includes such elements or that all embodiments ofthe invention include such elements.

The term “component” as used herein can be defined as a portion ofhardware, a portion of software, or a combination thereof. A portion ofhardware can include at least a processor and a portion of memory,wherein the memory includes an instruction to execute. The term“component” can further include a controller programmed to perform afunction, step, or methodology as described herein.

The term “storage container” or “container” as used herein can bedefined as a mechanical device that defines a volume, at least partiallysurrounded by the device, wherein the volume can house one or moreitems. In particular, the storage container or container can include anopening that allows a user to retrieve one or more items housed therein.Moreover, the storage container can house the items and such storagecontainer may be secured/unsecured, open/closed, locked/unlocked, etcetera, thereafter.

As used herein, an “inventory” can be one or more items capable of beingat least partially controlled by systems or methods disclosed herein.While the concept of “inventory” lends itself to boxes of pens or sheetsof paper, it will be understood on review of the disclosures herein thatan inventory can be a single item (e.g., a computer, a piece ofscientific equipment, a camera, sensitive print information, a piece ofmanufacturing equipment), a plurality of items (e.g., paperclips,batteries, manufacturing components, repair parts), and/or combinationsthereof. In embodiments, only a portion or related aspect of aninventory is stored in a container described herein. For example, oneset of items controlled by a container herein can be keys for one ormore vehicles. Thus, a vehicle inventory can be managed by aspectsherein, although the vehicles themselves are not stored in thecontainer. In another embodiment, a large piece of equipment can bepartially secured using devices in here, and cannot be used or movedwithout unlocking, despite the fact that physical contact with at leasta portion of the equipment is possible before it is released by thecontainer. These aspects are provided for illustrative purposes only,and are not intended to prohibit the use of larger containers (e.g.,sufficient to contain an automobile) with aspects herein. For example, ashipping container or secure room can be configured with aspects hereinto maintain larger items in its volume. While “inventory” can be used toindicate a collective plural, it may also be used herein to indicate aparticular item or items. “Inventory item” or similar terminology canrefer to one or more of a specific item within an inventory. Unlessspecifically indicated otherwise, such language may be usedinterchangeably in instances.

Further, while aspects herein are generally directed toward a workplaceenvironment and an inventory of supplies or equipment associated with anoffice, no example given or inference drawn should be deemed to limitapplication of the techniques herein to a particular environment. Thecontainer may be used in a variety of indoor or outdoor settings, and,in embodiments, may be ruggedized or include hermetic seals to withstandenvironmental conditions or hazards associated with use in a particularenvironment.

Systems and methods herein can be designed to track internal inventoryfor customers who currently use earlier vending machines at less thanhalf the cost of existing systems. Low-cost components can be integratedand flexible systems provided to avoid the expense of custom solutions.

Systems and methods herein can further include biometric or otherpositive user authentication. Video recording adds an additional levelof accurate monitoring. By carefully identifying each and every userinteracting with an inventory control system, users are motivated to usethe system properly and properly manage organizational resources.

Hardware and software used with aspects disclosed herein canadditionally be integrated end-to-end through an organization. Network,hardware, and software compatibility between components permits devicesto “talk to” one another, as well as communicate with other devices.

Despite the capability of systems and methods herein to interactremotely, aspects herein are configured to function without Internetaccess. By avoiding a connectivity requirement to use, aspects hereinare made more robust and flexible than a system that only functions withInternet access.

Systems and methods herein also dramatically increase the speed andefficiency of inventory access and management from the user perspective.Authentication, opening, removal, and closing of inventory managementsystems herein can take less than 15 seconds, whereas existing solutionsoften require dramatically more time to utilize.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a system 100 (also referred to as aninventory system) for managing items housed within a storage container10. FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the storage container 10 and variousembodiments of the system 100. In particular, FIG. 1 illustrates thestorage container 10 in a closed state (e.g., no access to the internalhousing of items) and FIG. 2 illustrates the storage container 10 in anopen state (e.g., access to the internal housing of items). The storagecontainer 10 houses one or more items. It is to be appreciated that theitems can be any suitable item or good that is used within anenvironment. For instance, in an office work environment, the item canbe an office supply such as, but not limited to, a pen, a ruler, tape,compact disks, DVD's, among others. In another example, the environmentcan be an industrial work environment, wherein the item can be a tool, apair of gloves, safety goggles, among others. It is to be appreciatedthat the subject innovation is intended to include any suitable itemthat is to be managed and/or tracked to optimize consumption of suchitem.

The storage container 10 further includes a verification component 12.The verification component 12 is configured to receive a portion of datafrom a user as input to determine whether the user is allowed access tothe storage container and/or inside of the storage container 10 thathouses items. In an example, the system 100 can utilize a lookup datatable that includes corresponding portions of data for each registereduser that has access to the storage container 10. Thus, if a portion ofdata is received by the verification component 12 and is containedwithin the lookup table (e.g., corresponding to a user based on a priorregistration), the user is allowed access. It is to be appreciated thatregistration for a user can be employed in various manners andregistration techniques are intended to be included with thisapplication.

For instance, a user can access the storage container 10 via theverification component 12 that is configured to receive a portion ofdata from the user. The portion of data can be, but is not limited to, aportion of biometric data, a code, a number, a letter, a barcode, aproximity sensor via wireless data transfer (e.g., Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC), wirelesscommunication via a transmitter and a receiver, among others), a keypadentry, an identification badge, a security badge, among others. By wayof example, the biometric data can be a handprint, a fingerprint, aretinal scan of an eye, a portion of facial data of the operator, aheight of the operator, a weight of the operator, body-shape of theoperator, capacitance of operator based on body-mass index, amongothers. By way of example, the portion of data can further be, but isnot limited to, a username, a password, employee identification, imageidentification, or a combination thereof. For example, the imageidentification can be a barcode, a Quick Response (QR) code, a portionof a graphic, a logo, a three-dimensional (3D) barcode, among others.

Embodiments herein can utilize a multi-factor authentication employingtwo or more verification techniques to access one or more portions ofcontainer 10. For example, entered data, biometric data, and otherinformation can be evaluated in combination to complete verification.

Upon verification, the user can be allowed access to the storagecontainer. In a particular example, a lock mechanism 18 is released orengaged based upon whether or not a user is authorized or verified. Forinstance, a lock mechanism 18 can be a magnetic based lock that isreleased upon verification of a user to allow access to the storagecontainer. Lock mechanism 18 can be an electronic lock, or a lock withmechanical components that are controlled by associated electroniccomponents. For example, a user is verified by the verificationcomponent 12 prior as having access to inside the storage container 10by, for instance, a thumbprint. Once verified, the storage container 10allows access to the housed items by releasing or disengaging the lockmechanism 18. As discussed in more detail below, the verification canalso activate one or more cameras 14 (also referred to as camera systemand/or first camera, second camera, and the like).

The system 100 can further include a first camera focused on the userwhen opening or accessing the items and a second camera focused on theitems housed within the storage container 10. The system 100 can includea controller component 15 that is configured to initiate recording ordata collection from the cameras 14 based upon at least one of averification of the user via the verification component 12 or anunlocking of the lock mechanism 18 based upon approval of the user. Inanother example, the controller component 15 can initiate recording ordata collection based on motion sensing. It is to be appreciated thatthe controller component 15 can manage the lock mechanism 18 based onthe verification component 12, (e.g., access to the storage container10) as well as, management of tracking items removed or returned to thestorage container 10.

In a particular embodiment, the inventory system 100 can include astorage container 10 with shelves at a top position, a middle position,and a lower position respectively. While the illustrated embodimentshows three shelves, any number of shelves can be included. Each shelfcan include at least one corresponding camera to capture the area withimage or video, in addition to the camera capturing media of the user.Thus, the user is monitored during the interaction with the storagecontainer 10 to identify any removal or return of items to or from thestorage container 10. The cameras 14 can collect media (e.g., images,video, and the like) to capture the user and the items as the items arereturned or removed from the storage container 10. It is to beappreciated that any suitable number of shelves and/or cameras can beemployed with the subject innovation.

In an embodiment, the cameras 14 can be installed inside the storagecontainer 10 such that at least one camera is focused on the useraccessing the storage container 10 and one or more cameras are focusedon items within the storage container 10 (to track removal orreturning). Additionally, the cameras 14 can be remotely controlled tomove focus and/or aim to a different location.

In another embodiment, the cameras 14 can be attached to one or moredoors (e.g., on the inside of the doors) of the storage container 10,wherein the doors can be limited with motion as to ensure the cameras 14are focused on at least one of the items in the storage container 10and/or the user opening or accessing the storage container 10.

The system 100 can further include a scanner 16 (e.g., wireless orhard-wired, also referred to as a scanning device) which is contained orplaced within the storage container 10. A user, upon verification andaccess to the storage container 10 via verification component 12, canutilize the scanner 16 to indicate which items are removed or returned.For instance, a scanning of a first item can indicate the item is beingremoved and a second scan of the same item can indicate the item isbeing returned. It is to be appreciated that each item can include amarking component as an identifier to allow tracking of the quantity ofeach item housed within the storage container. In another embodiment, adevice (discussed below) can be used to track removal or return of anitem.

In another embodiment, the system 100 can utilize a scale system 46 thatis configured to measure a weight of one or more items housed within thestorage container 10 and determine whether the number of items changedbased on a change in weight. For instance, a number of items can have afirst weight and when one or more items are removed or returned, a newweight is detected by a scale system 46 to determine a number of items.This can be utilized in combination or in the alternative of one or morecameras to detect item removal or return.

The scale system 46 can use one or more algorithms to determine theaddition or removal of items. For example, upon impulse, the scalesystem 46 may pause for the weight detected to remain within a threshold(e.g., not varying by more than ten (10) grams) for a preset time (e.g.,for three (3) seconds) before an inventory removed or added iscalculated. In embodiments, one or more inventory items can be trackedby weight. Various tolerances and thresholds can be employed toaccurately track inventory without permitting fraud or abuse. Further,as discussed elsewhere herein, weight can function as one of amulti-factor test to confirm proper inventory tracking. Inventorytracking, including multi-factor inventory tracking, need not dealexclusively with the removal of inventory, but can also confirm orverify return, replacement, or complete use or exhaustion of previouslyaccessed inventory.

The system 100 can further include and/or work in conjunction with awireless tracking system (not shown) such as, but not limited to, RFID,NFC, or a suitable transmitter and receiver system on each item. Thewireless tracking system can be used to track each item and quantitiesof items housed within the storage container 10. In another example, thecameras 14 can track movement to determine whether or not an item isremoved or replaced/returned. Based on the tracked movements, thecontroller component 15 can manage an inventory within the storagecontainer 10.

In an embodiment, the controller component 15 monitors an amount of theitems based on at least one of the scanner 16 and/or recorded media fromcameras 14. Additionally, the controller component 15 stores at leastone of the portion of data, the scan, the recorded media, and/or anyother suitable data from the system 100 to a data store.

It is to be appreciated that the detail of tracking inventory items fromthe storage container 10 can be any suitable level based on use of thescanner 16, scale system 46, motion sensors, among others. The describedstorage container 10 can be employed with one or more of the describedfeatures in order to tailor to a particular environment. For instance,the system can be employed with cameras when the environment ormanagement of the environment is not concerned with tracking each amountof each item stored in the storage container 10 (e.g., user behavior isinfluenced by awareness of being recorded). In another embodiment, acamera tracking system can include the scanner 16 as well. In anotherexample, the scale system 46 can be used in combination or in thealternative of the scanner 16. For instance, an environment thatincludes items that are difficult to track due to size (e.g., small insize) can leverage cameras 14, as well as, the a scale system 46 ratherthan the scanner 16 (e.g., scanning small items can be difficult due tosize).

As alluded, a variety of techniques can be employed to track inventorywithin the system 100. In order to more accurately track inventorypresent, added, or removed, inventory can be marked in one or more waysfacilitating accurate identification. Accurate identification caninclude a multi-factor test applied based on activity related to thecontainer 10 (e.g., weight on scale reduced or increased, motion sensed,and others). For example, a blue pen or even a pencil can beaccidentally replaced or bumped into the area designated for red pens.In this example, the weight of a blue pen or pencil being added to thered pens will result in an inaccurate inventory for both the red pensand the blue pens or pencils. Such activity may thwart highly accurateinventory management.

In an embodiment, the system 100 can utilize a marking component (notshown) as an identifier. Marking can include any combination ofstickers, tags, bands, and other attachments or treatments. Such markingcan relate to color coding, defining reflective portions, definingportions having a known infrared signature, including differentpatterns, including magnetic portions, and so forth. Various machinevision techniques can be employed alone or in combination with scanners(e.g., scanner 16) or sensors (e.g., detectors used in combination withRFID technology, magnets, light intensity, and so forth) to accuratelyidentify specific inventory items.

Additional means for identifying the removal or replacement ofparticular items can include inventory holder 48. Inventory holder 48can be a standalone device or integrated into one or more portions ofcontainer 10. Inventory holder 48 can include one or more mechanical orelectrical means to detect the presence or absence of an item. Forexample, inventory holder 48 can retain a plurality of thumb drives.Based on whether a thumb drive is present, a mechanical closure may beheld open, or an electrical circuit may be held open, such that removalof the thumb drive closes the apparatus or circuit, triggering a signalto indicate the thumb drive was removed. In embodiments, inventoryholder 48 can be specially sized or configured to accept a specificinventory item. In alternative or complementary embodiments, inventoryholder 48 can be adapted to accept a plurality of different itemssimultaneously or at different times.

The system 100 can include a first power source 22 and a backup powersource 24 to provide power thereto. For instance, a first power source22 can provide power to the system 100 from a main line of power,wherein a backup power source 24 can provide power as a backup system inthe event power is unobtainable via the main line of power. Forinstance, the backup power source 24 can be, but is not limited to, abattery power source. In an embodiment, one or more of first powersource 22 and/or backup power source 24 can provide surge protection toprevent damage or outages. In an embodiment, the backup power source 24can operate as the power supply for continued extended use in the eventthe primary power supply (e.g., wired AC power) is interrupted in theenvironment around the storage container 10 (e.g., a property wherestorage container 10 is deployed may experience a property-wide poweroutage, but backup power source 24 prevents impact on operationalcapability of storage container 10 and/or components thereof).

Backup power source 24 also allows system 100 to be moved withoutinterruption (e.g., powering down) of one or more electrically poweredcomponents. First power source 22 can be a primary (e.g., wired ACpower) cord, and this cord may be disconnected (e.g., from a wall plug).Backup power source 24 can keep system 100 energized until first powersource 22 is reconnected. First power source 22 can be reconnected in adifferent location after moving system 100.

In embodiments, backup power source 24 can be, at least in part, outsidecontainer 10. In alternative embodiments, backup power source 24 can bestored within container 10 (not pictured). In still additionalalternative or complementary embodiments, backup power source 24 caninclude multiple components or sources, some of which are stored incontainer 10, and some of which exist outside container 10. Power cable26 can link backup power source 24 to the power line through which firstpower source 22 or another power supply energizes the components ofsystem 100.

The system 100 can further include a notification component 20 that isconfigured to communicate a notification or signal. The notificationcomponent can generate at least one of an audible signal, a visiblesignal, a haptic signal, a wireless signal to another component ordevice, an email notification, among others. The notification component20 can be customized to transmit or display a signal based upon at leastone of a repair needed, a maintenance needed, a duration of time lapsed,a replenishment of inventory needed, a theft, an unauthorized access, adetected tampering (e.g., shaking, force detected, among others), andthe like. For instance, upon an item being below defined quantity, asignal can be communicated to replenish such item. Each time a signal iscommunicated or displayed from notification component 20, it can belogged into a data store.

System 100 can include a communications component 54. Communicationscomponent 54 can facilitate one or more techniques of wired or wirelessdata communication to transfer information for storage or analysis,transmit notifications, facilitate remote access, et cetera. Inembodiments, communications component 54 can be enclosed withincontainer 10. In alternative or complementary embodiments,communications component 54 exists, at least partially, outsidecontainer 10. In another example, communications component 54 can besubstantially housed in container 10, but include an external link, suchas antenna 32, external wiring, or other techniques.

The system 100 can further include a remote access to at least one ofthe storage container 10, the lock mechanism 18, the verificationcomponent 12, the cameras 14, the controller component 15, the scanner16, the power source 22, the backup power source 24, the notificationcomponent 20, the communications component 54 or a combination thereof.The remote access allows control of the system 100 from a location otherthan at the storage container 10. For instance, a remote access canallow control of the storage container 10 from a computer in a differentphysical location in comparison to the location of the storage container10. In another embodiment, a remote access can be from one network to asecond network hosting the storage container 10. It is to be appreciatedthat the network can be any suitable network such as, but not limitedto, a wireless network, LAN, WAN, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, local, remote,cloud-based, or a combination thereof. The remote access can be utilizedto manage video capture or media capture, access to the storagecontainer 10, turn on or off components, unlock or lock the storagecontainer 10, move or adjust cameras 14, access the scanner 16,communicate a signal from the notification component 20, among others.In another example, a remote access can be utilized to providetrouble-shooting (including, e.g. off-site trouble-shooting) to thesystem 100.

The system 100 can further be utilized to analyze usage, patterns, orpurchases of items based on the data collected related to items removed,returned, used, consumed, among others. For instance, a number of itemsin the storage container can be determined to have a particular lifetimeor last a specific amount of time based on historical data.Additionally, historical data can be used to determine a user that isconsuming or using too much of an item. It is to be appreciated thatinventory data collected can be used in various applications and isintended to be included with the subject innovation. In an embodiment,the controller component 15 is configured to provide an estimation ofconsumption for a plurality of items (e.g., the first item or the seconditem) based upon collected historical data related to removal of itemsfrom the storage container.

In an example, a user can interact with the storage container 10 with adevice, wherein the interaction can be a verification (e.g., viaverification component 12) or a logging of items (e.g., using a device,such as a scanner 16). It is to be appreciated that the device can be,but is not limited to being, a computer, a desktop machine, a tablet, aportable device, a portable digital assistant, a smartphone, a laptop, acomputing device, a portable gaming device, a game console, a devicethat can access the Internet, a kiosk, a terminal, a display, a surfacecomputing device, smart glass, a surface that interacts with a user'smotion or touch, and the like.

Although not depicted in FIG. 1, it is to be appreciated that, in anembodiment, the controller component 15 can be a stand-alone component(as depicted in FIG. 5), incorporated into the storage container 10, ora suitable combination thereof. Similarly, it is to be appreciated that,in an embodiment, the verification component 12 can be a stand-alonecomponent (as depicted FIG. 5), incorporated into the storage container10, or a suitable combination thereof. Similarly, it is to beappreciated that, in an embodiment, the lock mechanism 18 can be astand-alone component (as depicted in FIG. 5), incorporated into thestorage container 10, or a suitable combination thereof. Similarly, itis to be appreciated that, in an embodiment, the camera(s) 14 can be astand-alone component (as depicted in FIG. 5), incorporated into thestorage container 10, or a suitable combination thereof. Similarly, itis to be appreciated that, in an embodiment, the power source 22 and/orbackup power source 24 can be stand-alone components (as depicted),incorporated into the storage container 10, or a suitable combinationthereof. Similarly, it is to be appreciated that, in an embodiment, thenotification component 20 can be a stand-alone component (as depicted inFIG. 5), incorporated into the storage container 10, or a suitablecombination thereof. In various embodiments, other components (e.g.,scanner 16, scale system 46, inventory holder 48, power cable 26,communication component 54) can be stand-alone components, incorporatedinto storage container 10, or combinations thereof.

The system 100 can store media from cameras, portions of data fromusers, registration data, inventory information, item data, among othersin a data store. It is to be appreciated that the data store can be, forexample, either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can includeboth volatile and nonvolatile memory. The data store of the subjectsystems and methods is intended to comprise, without being limited to,these and other suitable types of memory. In addition, it is to beappreciated that the data store can be a server, a database, a harddrive, a flash drive, an external hard drive, a portable hard drive, acloud-based storage, a solid-state drive, and the like. The data storecan further be a local data store, a remote data store, a cloud-baseddata store, or a combination thereof.

Specifically shown in FIG. 3, system 100 can include display component36 mounted to container 10. Display component 36 can display anyinformation, including information related to container 10, itsinventory, users, and other containers. In embodiments, displaycomponent 36 can display the inventory contained in summary oritem-by-item. In some embodiments, display component 36 can display astatus of container 10 related to its function (e.g., offline orrequiring service) or its inventory (e.g., items checked out orexhausted). In the event that container 10 requires service (e.g.,damaged, inventory requiring replenishment), display component 36 candisplay the location of nearby containers with one or more desiredinventory items. Display component 36 can be coupled with one or moreother components (e.g., processors, memory) to receive data related tothe information presented on display component 36.

In alternative or complementary embodiments, display component 36 candisplay information about an inventory item, user, or group of users.For example, inventory information can include information about aninventory item, its cost, its expected lifespan or usage, and others. Inembodiments, a user's inventory usage can be displayed, such as thenumber or value of items utilized. In embodiments, display component 36can facilitate an account system where credits or debits are tracked byuser. In particular embodiments, the user can be given an inventory“allowance” where they will be prevented from accessing additionalinventory items after debits exceed a threshold. Finally, users orgroups of users can be displayed on display component 36 in terms oftheir total usage or efficiency, or comparative usage or efficiency inview of other users or groups.

Container 10 can include panels 28. In embodiments, panels 28 can betransparent or opaque. In such embodiments, panels 28 can enable viewingof at least a subset of inventory items in container 10. In alternativeembodiments, one or both of panels 28 are solid, preventing view intocontainer 10.

Closure 34 can be used to manually actuate opening or closing ofcontainer 10 once verification is complete via verification component12.

With specific reference to FIG. 4, other aspects are depicted. As shown,a plurality of cameras and motion sensors can be included without regardfor their type, position, or arrangement. Container 10 may include motorcomponent 58, which can automatically open or close one or more securityfeatures of container 10. For example, motor component 58 can open oneor both doors based on a verification. Motor component 58 can be usedalone or in combination with one or more camera(s) 14 (or othersensors). For example, when used with camera(s) 14, logic employingimagery from camera(s) 14 (or other sensors) can be used to prevent harmto users or damage to inventory based on opening or closing of container10.

Container 10 may include vending component 50. Vending component 50 may,upon proper verification via verification component 12 (or othercomponents), dispense one or more inventory items to a manual retrieval.Vending component 50 may be integrated into container 10, or may be astandalone device placed therein. For instance, the vending component 50can automatically release an item stored in the container 10 based uponverification, authentication, and the like. For instance, the vendingcomponent 50 can include multiple items with each item secured, whereinupon authentication or verification, one of the multiple items can beautomatically dispensed to a user. It is to be appreciated that theautomatic dispensing of the item from the container 10 can include atleast unlocking, unsecuring, releasing, delivering, or providing theitem to the user.

Container 10 may include one or more security sector components 38.Security sector 38 is secured by sector locking component 40. Based onverification via verification component 12 (or other components,including manual locks), security sector 38 may be unsecured to accesscontents. In this regard, security sector 38 can store specificinventory items whereby a user who does not have verificationcredentials to access security sector 38 can still access the remainderof container 10.

Container 10 may also include security box 42 having a box lockingcomponent 44. Like sector locking component 40, box locking component 44can be secured or unsecured based on one or both of verificationinformation from verification component 12 or other mechanisms. Boxcomponent can be fixed or movable within container 10, and deny at leasta portion of users access to contents of security box 42 while stillpermitting access to the remainder of container 10.

Container 10 can include single sides 60 and 62 separated by divider 52.Divider 52 prevents a user from accessing single side 60 or 62 when thedoor or closure covering this side is secured. For example, averification via verification component 12 can unsecure one door or halfof container 10, allowing a user to access only the permitted portionsof container 10. By separating single sides 60 and 62, divider 52 deniesusers lacking adequate verification level from accessing one side andthe inventory associated therewith.

The aforementioned systems, components, (e.g., storage container 10,camera(s) 14, verification component 12, controller component 15,scanner 16, lock mechanism 18, notification component 20, power source22, backup power source 24, among others), and the like have beendescribed with respect to interaction between several components and/orelements. It should be appreciated that such devices and elements caninclude those elements or sub-elements specified therein, some of thespecified elements or sub-elements, and/or additional elements. Furtheryet, one or more elements and/or sub-elements may be combined into asingle component to provide aggregate functionality. The elements mayalso interact with one or more other elements not specifically describedherein.

In an embodiment, an inventory system 100 is provided with the portionof data being at least one of a biometric data of the user, a barcode,an identification badge, a number, a code, a face detection of the user,a fingerprint of the user, or a wireless communication from the user. Inan embodiment, the inventory system 100 further includes a power source22 that supplies a portion of power to at least one of the wirelessscanning device 16, the camera system 14, the controller component 15,or the lock mechanism 18. In an embodiment, the inventory system 100further includes a backup battery power source 24 that supplies aportion of power upon the interruption of power to the power source 22.

In an embodiment, the inventory system 100 further includes a scalesystem 46 that measures a weight associated with at least one of thefirst item or the second item to determine at least one of the firstamount or the second amount. In an embodiment, the inventory system 100further includes a notification component 20 that is configured tocommunicate a notification based upon at least one of a service call, amaintenance, a repair, or a replenishment of the first item or thesecond item.

In an embodiment, the inventory system 100 further includes the wirelessscanning device providing a scan of a portion of the first item or aportion of the second item to indicate a return to the storage container10, wherein the controller component 15 is further configured to monitorthe return of at least one of the first item or the second item. In anembodiment, the inventory system 100 further includes a camera system 14that detects movement from the user to determine at least one of aremoval or a return of at least one of the first item or the seconditem.

As described above, a first camera can focus on a user in proximity toinventory system 100. A second camera may focus on at least a first areainside the storage container. In an embodiment, the camera system 14further includes a third camera and a fourth camera, wherein the thirdcamera focuses on a second area inside the storage container, and thefourth camera focuses on a third area inside the storage container.Additional cameras may be provided to focus on other areas in someembodiments. In an embodiment, the controller component 15 is furtherconfigured to provide an estimation of consumption for at least one ofthe first item or the second item based upon collected historical datarelated to removal of the first item or the second item from the storagecontainer 10.

In an embodiment, the system 100 can emit a signal in the event the doorof storage container 10 remains open (or is improperly closed) for aspecified duration of time (e.g., 35 seconds, among others) after beingpermitted to open (e.g., via verification component 12 and/or lockmechanism 18). For example, container 10 can alert via a signal in theevent a user forgets to close or incorrectly closes the door to accesscontainer 10. In this example, the alert signal indicates to those inthe vicinity of container 10 that the door needs to be closed.

In an embodiment, an inventory management system 100 is provided thatincludes at least the following: a container 10 with at least one openside; doors 30 including at least a first door that closes a firstportion of the open side; a second door that closes a second portion ofthe open side; a locking component 18 that secures the first door andthe second door; a verification component 12 that selectively unsecuresand resecures at least one of the first door and the second door basedon a verification input, wherein the verification input controls thelocking component 18; an inventory tracking component that assesses aninventory quantity within the container; and a controller component 15that records the inventory quantity to a database.

In the embodiment, the container can include a display component 36 thatdisplays information related to at least one of a user associated withthe verification input, the inventory quantity, the inventory managementcontainer, or a group of users, wherein the display component 36 is atleast one of accessible outside the container or viewable from a user infront of the first door or the second door. In the embodiment, thecontainer 10 can include a first power source 22 and a second powersource, wherein at least one of the first power source 22 and the secondpower source is a battery backup 24. In the embodiment, the at least oneof the first power source 22 and the second power source is enclosedwithin the container 10.

In the embodiment, at least one of the first door and the second door isat least partially transparent (panels 28, or other portions). In theembodiment, the container 10 can include a security sector, wherein theverification component 12 selectively unsecures and resecures thesecurity sector based on the verification input. In the embodiment, theinventory tracking component includes a scale component 46 thatascertains an item within the container 10 based on at least a weight ofthe item. In the embodiment, the inventory tracking component includesan inventory holder 48 that holds an item within the container 10. Inthe embodiment, the inventory tracking component includes a vendingcomponent 50 that automatically dispenses an item from the container 10to a user.

In an embodiment, a system is provided that includes at least thefollowing: means for retaining an inventory in an enclosure; means forverifying a user requesting the inventory with a user verification;means for permitting access to the enclosure based on the userverification; means for capturing an image related to the user; meansfor capturing an image related to the inventory; means for determiningremoval of the inventory; and means for recording removal of theinventory in a data. It is to be appreciated that an enclosure is ahousing that includes a volume. It is to be appreciated that anyenclosure or container can be chosen with sound engineering judgmentwithout departing from the intended scope of the subject innovation.

Turning to FIG. 6, illustrated is an extension of system 100 whereby amanagement component 200 receives information from (and, in embodiments,transmits information to) controller component 15. Specifically,management component 200 can receive inventory information, locationinformation, user information, group information, and other data thatcan be used in inventory management. Management component 200 can trackand forecast inventory usage, and be used to automate service orreplenishment to container 10. Management component 200 can analyzecontainer 10 and inventory utilization for a single container 10 oracross an enterprise in multiple locations and with different usersand/or functional groups. Management component 200 can identify trends,and flag users, locations or groups which are statistically aberrant interms of unusually high usage, replenishment requirements, or service.Fraud or theft can be tracked. Coordination between multiple containers(e.g., container 10 and another container) in terms of orderinginventory, replenishment, service, et cetera, can be effected.

Management component 200 can track efficiency or usage by individualuser or group, and provide reports related thereto. Further, users mayutilize container 10 to request particular inventory not present orsubmit messages to personnel involved in inventory management, which canbe enabled using communication between controller component 15 andmanagement component 200.

Management component 200 can improve enterprise efficiency by reducinginventory replenishment costs. For example, in addition to forecastingand tracking usage within the enterprise, management component 200 cantrack and forecast pricing from inventory suppliers. Pricing trends,bulk offers, alternative suppliers, coupons, et cetera, can be trackedusing network connections, and management component 200 can identifyopportune times for the enterprise associated with container 10 to savecosts by buying or delaying purchase of inventory. In embodiments,strike conditions can be manually set or inferred by managementcomponent 200, and purchasing can be automated using managementcomponent 200. Ultimately, resource planning related to at least theinventory stored in container 10 and associated devices can be effectedusing management component 200.

With reference to FIG. 7, illustrated is an example general-purposecomputer 710 or computing device (e.g., desktop, laptop, server,hand-held, programmable consumer or industrial electronics, set-top box,game system, et cetera). The computer 710 includes one or moreprocessor(s) 720, memory 730, system bus 740, mass storage 750, and oneor more interface components 770. The system bus 740 communicativelycouples at least the above system components. However, it is to beappreciated that in its simplest form the computer 710 can include oneor more processors 720 coupled to memory 730 that execute variouscomputer executable actions, instructions, and or components stored inmemory 730.

The processor(s) 720 can be implemented with a general purposeprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) orother programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic,discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed toperform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor maybe a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be anyprocessor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. Theprocessor(s) 720 may also be implemented as a combination of computingdevices, for example a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, aplurality of microprocessors, multi-core processors, one or moremicroprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other suchconfiguration.

The computer 710 can include or otherwise interact with a variety ofcomputer-readable media to implement one or more aspects of the claimedsubject matter. The computer-readable media can be any available mediathat can be accessed by the computer 710 and includes volatile andnonvolatile media, and removable and non-removable media. By way ofexample, and not limitation, computer-readable media may comprisecomputer storage media and communication media.

Computer storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storageof information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data. Computer storage media includes, but isnot limited to memory devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM),read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EEPROM), et cetera), magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk,floppy disk, cassettes, tape . . . ), optical disks (e.g., compact disk(CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), et cetera), and solid state devices(e.g., solid state drive (SSD), flash memory drive (e.g., card, stick,key drive, etc.), among others), or any other medium which can be usedto store the desired information and which can be accessed by thecomputer 710.

Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated datasignal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includesany information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means asignal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed insuch a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example,and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as awired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such asacoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of any ofthe above should also be included within the scope of computer-readablemedia.

Memory 730 and mass storage 750 are examples of computer-readablestorage media. Depending on the exact configuration and type ofcomputing device, memory 730 may be volatile (e.g., RAM), non-volatile(e.g., ROM, flash memory . . . ) or some combination of the two. By wayof example, the basic input/output system (BIOS), including basicroutines to transfer information between elements within the computer710, such as during start-up, can be stored in nonvolatile memory, whilevolatile memory can act as external cache memory to facilitateprocessing by the processor(s) 720, among other things.

Mass storage 750 includes removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatilecomputer storage media for storage of large amounts of data relative tothe memory 730. For example, mass storage 750 includes, but is notlimited to, one or more devices such as a magnetic or optical diskdrive, floppy disk drive, flash memory, solid-state drive, or memorystick.

Memory 730 and mass storage 750 can include, or have stored therein,operating system 760, one or more applications 762, one or more programmodules 764, and data 766. The operating system 760 acts to control andallocate resources of the computer 710. Applications 762 include one orboth of system and application software and can exploit management ofresources by the operating system 760 through program modules 764 anddata 766 stored in memory 730 and/or mass storage 750 to perform one ormore actions. Accordingly, applications 762 can turn a general-purposecomputer 710 into a specialized machine in accordance with the logicprovided thereby.

All or portions of the claimed subject matter can be implemented usingstandard programming and/or engineering techniques to produce software,firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof to control a computer torealize the disclosed functionality. By way of example, and notlimitation, controller component 15, cameras 14, verification component12, other components or aspects herein, or portions thereof, can be, orform part of, an application 762, and include one or more programmodules 764 and data 766 stored in memory 730 and/or mass storage 750whose functionality can be realized when executed by one or moreprocessor(s) 720.

In accordance with one particular embodiment, the processor(s) 720 cancorrespond to a system on a chip (SOC) or like architecture including,or in other words integrating, both hardware and software on a singleintegrated circuit substrate. Here, the processor(s) 720 can include oneor more processors, as well as, memory at least similar to processor(s)720 and memory 730, among other things. Conventional processors includea minimal amount of hardware and software and rely extensively onexternal hardware and software. By contrast, a SOC implementation ofprocessor is more powerful, as it embeds hardware and software therein,that enables particular functionality with minimal or no reliance onexternal hardware and software. For example, the controller component15, the cameras 14, verification component 12, and/or associatedfunctionality can be embedded within hardware in a SOC architecture.

The computer 710 also includes one or more interface components 770 thatare communicatively coupled to the system bus 740 and facilitateinteraction with the computer 710. By way of example, the interfacecomponent 770 can be a port (e.g. serial, parallel, PCMCIA, USB,FireWire, et cetera) or an interface card (e.g., sound, video, etcetera) or the like. In one example implementation, the interfacecomponent 770 can be embodied as a user input/output interface to enablea user to enter commands and information into the computer 710 throughone or more input devices (e.g., pointing device such as a mouse,trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad,satellite dish, scanner, camera, other computer, et cetera). In anotherexample implementation, the interface component 770 can be embodied asan output peripheral interface to supply output to displays (e.g., CRT,LCD, plasma . . . ), speakers, printers, and/or other computers, amongother things. Still further yet, the interface component 770 can beembodied as a network interface to enable communication with othercomputing devices (not shown), such as over a wired or wirelesscommunications link.

Turning to FIGS. 8-13, the storage container 10 is illustrated inanother embodiment. The storage container 10 is illustrated withouthinged doors in FIGS. 8-13 and it is to be appreciated based on at leastthe above description that the storage container 10 can include two ormore doors hinged thereto. For example, each door can include one ormore cameras attached or removably coupled to a corner of an interiorside of the door or a center edge of an interior side of one of thedoors. FIG. 9 illustrates the storage container 10 in a front view. FIG.10 illustrates the storage container 10 in a rear view. FIG. 11illustrates the storage container in a right-side view (with the leftside view being a mirror image of the right-side view. FIG. 12illustrates the storage container 10 in a top perspective view. FIG. 13illustrates the storage container 10 in a bottom perspective view.

The storage container 10 can be configured to vend a stored item to auser based on verification of the user, unlocking the doors, andmonitoring access of the user and/or the stored item beforeverification, during verification, during access, and after the doorsare secured. In a particular example, the storage container 10 can beenergy efficient by maintaining a low energy state. The low energy statecan include having cameras off, internal lighting off, and powering onlythe controller component 15 and/or the verification component 12. Uponverification of a user or upon activation of a keypad or screen thatcommunicates with a user to determine verification, a camera, fixed toan exterior of the storage container 10, can be activated to capture whoaccesses or activated the keypad or screen to begin verification. Afterverification, the locks for the doors can be deactivated. Upondeactivation of the doors, a sensor can detect when a door is opened topower or activate one or more cameras that monitor the contents of thestorage container 10. The cameras can be located on an interior side ofat least one door and preferably in a corner (opposite of a hinged side)of a door or at a center edge (opposite of a hinged side) of a door. Thecameras can be aimed to the internal area of the storage container 10when the doors are approximately at a 90 degree in comparison to a frontside of the storage container 10. As discussed, the storage container 10includes a motion limiting device that restricts motion of at least onedoor so as to provide a line of sight for the camera. This allows acamera to capture what is being taken out of the storage container 10.

The storage container 10 can include a first sidewall 806, a secondsidewall 808 opposite the first sidewall 806, a top 810, a bottom 812opposite the top 810, and a backwall 804. Inside the storage container10 can include one or more shelves 802. The shelf or shelves 802 cansupport one or more items and can support a container 816. The container816 can house one or more items that are secured in the storagecontainer 10. As discussed above, the shelf 816 can include acorresponding camera on an interior side of a door to capture whetheritems have been removed from the container 816. The camera can be at aheight location on the interior side of the door that corresponds to aheight of the shelf 816 inside the storage container 10.

The shelf or shelves 802 can be removably coupled to an inside wall(e.g., backwall 804, first sidewall 806, second sidewall 808, top 810,bottom 812). For instance, an overlapping configuration (e.g., edgefitting or supported by a hook on an inside wall) can be used in whichan edge of the shelf 802 can be engaged into a hook coupled orintegrated onto the inside wall. In another embodiment, the shelf 802can be stationary and non-removably affixed by a weld. In addition to anoverlapping configuration, the shelf 802 can be removably coupled to thestorage container 10 or inside the storage container 10 by a screw,bolt, weld, tongue and groove configuration, hook configuration, pegconfiguration, and the like.

The shelf 802 can be angled or slanted to allow for at least one of aline-of-site for a camera or for a user, wherein the line-of-site allowsfor a view into the storage cabinet 10 and the container 816. The shelf802 can include a rectangular shape in which there is a front side(e.g., closest to the front of the storage container 10) and a backside(e.g., closest to the back of the storage container 10) opposite thefront side. The backside can be raised a distance above the front sideof the shelf 802. In particular, the inside walls can include a firstset of hooks on two or more locations on the inside walls on a firstplane and a second set of hooks on two or more locations on the insidewalls on a second plane, wherein the first plane and the second planecan be separated by a distance. The distance can be above or below inwhich the first plane can be higher than the second plane or the secondplane can be higher than the first plane. It is to be appreciated thatthere can be a number of planes for the sets of hooks so as to customizethe distance between one or more shelves and/or the angles of theshelves 802. For instance, a front side of the shelf 802 can be affixedto a first set of hooks on a first plane and the backside of the shelf802 can be affixed to a second set of hooks on a second plane, whereinthe second plane is a distance above the first plane providing an anglein comparison to a ground level of where the storage container 10 islocated. Based on which hooks the edge of the shelf is engaged into cantranslate into a level shelf (e.g., level compared to a ground level) ora raised shelf 802 (where the backside of the shelf 802 is raised higherthan the front side of the shelf 802), or a lowered shelf (where thefront side of the shelf 802 is higher than the backside of the shelf802). It is to be appreciated that the height of the shelf 802 can bemanually adjusted, automatically adjusted, or a combination thereof.

In order for the container 816 to be stationary on a raised or angledshelf 802, the container 816 can include a magnet 1410 to maintain alocation of the container 816 on the shelf 802. The magnet 1410 can beaffixed to a bottom of the container 816, wherein the magnetism to ametal or metallic-based shelf 802 allows restriction of movement. Themagnet 1410 can be affixed to a suitable location on the container 816.In an embodiment, the magnet 1410 can be affixed to the container 816with a glue, epoxy, an adhesive, and the like. The storage container 10can include one or more containers 816 each having a magnet or magnetsto allow for customized layouts for containers and such layouts haverestricted movement due to the magnetism to the shelf 802. The storagecontainer 10 can include an “N” number of containers, each having arespective size or shape, where N is a positive integer.

In addition to a magnet, the container 816 can utilize a pad or materialthat has a high coefficient of friction to reduce movement on an angledor raised shelf 802.

In another embodiment, the container 816 can include a sticker or tackymaterial on the bottom of the container 816.

Turning to FIG. 14, a cross-sectional view 1400 of the shelf 802 isillustrated. The shelf 802 can have a front side 1406 and a backside1408, wherein the backside 1408 is higher than the front side 1406 incomparison to a ground level 1404. This configuration of the shelf 802in FIG. 14 allows for the shelf 802 to have an angle 1402, wherein theangle can be approximately zero (0) degrees to approximately sixty (60)degrees. In an embodiment, the angle 1402 can be nine (9) degrees.

FIG. 14 further illustrates a first container 816 and a second container816, each having a respective magnet 1410. It is to be appreciated thatthe containers can be oriented side-by-side or front-to-back (asdepicted), or a combination thereof. The angle 1402 allows a firstline-of-site 1412 for a camera that captures the removal or return ofitems housed by each container 816. The angle 1402 further allows asecond line-of-site 1414 for a user to view items housed by eachcontainer 816.

It is to be appreciated that the height of the shelf 802 can be manuallyadjusted, automatically adjusted, or a combination thereof. For example,a height of the shelf 802 or angle of the shelf 802 can be adjustedbased on a parameter, wherein the parameter is a user, a height of auser, a title of a user, a security clearance of a user, an amount ofmoney dispensed into the storage unit 10, an inventory of an item on ashelf 802, an amount removed of a requested item by a user, a user'shistorical data related to accessing the storage container 10, and thelike. In another embodiment, the angle of the shelf 802 can correspondto an accessibility of items on the shelf 802. For example, a flat oreven (compared to ground level) can indicate unrestricted items or itemson that flat or even shelf.

In an embodiment, the storage container 10 can identify a user anddetermine a height of such user. The height of the user can be utilizedto adjust a height of the shelf 802 and/or an angle of the camera inorder to capture the inside of the storage cabinet 10 withoutrestriction of view. For example, a taller user can have the shelf orshelves 802 be angled with the front side 1406 higher than the backside1408. In another example, a shorter user can have the shelf or shelvesbe angled with the front side 1406 lower than the backside 1408.Moreover, based on the height of the user, the camera aim orline-of-site to capture imagery can be adjusted such that a taller userwould correspond to an up-angled view from the camera to the inside ofthe storage cabinet 10 and that a shorter user would correspond to adown-angled view from the camera to the inside of the storage cabinet10. In another embodiment, an average height of users that can accessthe storage cabinet 10 can be used as a baseline height for thecamera(s) line-of-site and/or the angle 1402 of the shelf or shelves802, wherein if a user is above the baseline, an adjustment is made forthe camera or the shelf.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate the container 816. The container 816 can houseone or more items, wherein the container 816 can be a size, shape,color, or fabricated by a material (e.g., metal, plastic, polymer,alloy, and the like). In a particular embodiment, the container 816 canbe fabricated out of a plastic having a bright green tint. FIG. 15 is afront view of the container 816 having a magnet attached. FIG. 16 is aside view of the container 816 having a magnet attached. FIG. 17 is atop view of the container 816 having a magnet attached. FIG. 18 is aperspective view of the container 816 having a magnet attached. It is tobe appreciated that the magnet 1410 and/or the container 816 can be anysuitable shape or size that holds a volume and can be chosen by soundengineering judgment.

As described above, systems and methods herein include various computerhardware and software aspects. In some embodiments described above, openor closed networks between containers and associated circuits and logiccan be used to integrate inventory management end-to-end throughbusiness units, locations, or entire enterprises. Information can beaggregated and shared between containers as well. Computers not directlyassociated with container systems can also be used to access, display,and process information generated from container systems.

In an example, iteration of an inventory activity utilizing suchcombined hardware and logic, a system begins by biometricallyauthenticating a user. Thereafter, a container of the system can beun-secured to allow users to take an item. In embodiments, a barcodescanner is provided, and the user scans a barcode on the item. Theinformation gleaned from the barcode scanner can, in some embodiments,be corroborated by information from another sensor (e.g., scale).Alternatively, another sensor can be utilized in place of a barcodescanner. During this time, a video camera can also be recording theactivity. The container can be closed and re-secured after the desireditems are removed and accounted for. After the transaction is complete,or at regular intervals, information can be retrieved from the system.Retrieval of information can be performed locally or remotely, andautomatically or manually with human interaction. This information canbe stored in a database facilitating review and management of inventoryinformation. The database can be leveraged by administrators andmanagers, as well as, supply personnel who can use system information toreplenish inventory and forecast demand. Notifications can be generatedand transmitted to ensure the appropriate personnel are aware whenaction is required (e.g., inventory low, specific item taken, fraud orabuse).

While aspects herein have generally been described in reference tomanagement of office supplies, it is understood that systems and methodsherein can be applied to other environments as well. For example,container systems herein can be used in food service, laboratoryenvironments (including “clean rooms”), and others.

In the specification and claims, reference will be made to a number ofterms that have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an” and“the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. Approximating language, as used herein throughout thespecification and claims, may be applied to modify a quantitativerepresentation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a changein the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a valuemodified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precisevalue specified. In some instances, the approximating language maycorrespond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, a use of the terms“first,” “second,” etc., does not denote an order or importance, butrather the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish oneelement from another.

As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility ofan occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specifiedproperty, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb byexpressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibilityassociated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “maybe” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable,or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while takinginto account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimesnot be appropriate, capable, or suitable. For example, in somecircumstances an event or capacity can be expected, while in othercircumstances the event or capacity cannot occur—this distinction iscaptured by the terms “may” and “may be.”

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable one of ordinary skill in theart to practice the invention, including making and using devices orsystems and performing incorporated methods. The patentable scope of theinvention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples thatoccur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples areintended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structuralelements that do not differentiate from the literal language of theclaims, or if they include equivalent structural elements withinsubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A storage container, comprising: at least oneshelf, mounted within a secured interior of the storage container, tosupport one or more items for storage; at least one door configured toselectively enable access to at least a portion of the secured interior;a lock mechanism configured to secure the at least one door in a closedand locked position; a verification component integrated with thestorage container and configured to receive information related to anaccess request which, upon verification of the information received,results in a signal to the lock mechanism to release the at least onedoor; and a camera system that includes: a first camera mounted to anexterior surface of the storage container and configured to captureimages of an exterior area in front of the at least one door; and asecond camera mounted on an interior surface of the at least one doorand configured to capture images of an area including the at least oneshelf.
 2. The storage container of claim 1, wherein the at least onedoor includes a transparent panel through which the secured interior isvisible.
 3. The storage container of claim 1, further comprising adisplay mounted on an exterior of the at least one door.
 4. The storagecontainer of claim 1, further comprising a vending component configuredto dispense the one or more items stored within the secured interior. 5.The storage container of claim 1, further comprising a scanner operableto scan a marking or barcode associated with at least one item of theone or more items stored within the secured interior, wherein a scan ofthe marking or barcode by the scanner is indicative of removal orreplacement of the at least one item.
 6. The storage container of claim1, further comprising a communications interface configured tocommunicate with a remote inventory management system.
 7. The storagecontainer of claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to:verify the information related to the access request received by theverification component; and monitor access to the one or more itemsstored within the secured interior based on the information related tothe access request and images captured by the camera system.
 8. Thestorage container of claim 7, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to monitor respective inventory of the one or more items. 9.The storage container of claim 1, wherein the at least one shelf isremovably mounted within the secured interior.
 10. A storage container,comprising: a shelf, mounted within a secured interior of the storagecontainer, to support an item for storage; a door configured toselectively enable access to at least a portion of the secured interiorthat includes the shelf; a lock mechanism configured to secure the doorin a closed and locked position; a verification component integratedwith the storage container and configured to receive verificationinformation from a user; a controller configured to: authenticate theverification information and, upon verification, signal the lockmechanism to release the door, and record access to and usage of theitem; and a camera system that includes: a first camera mounted to thestorage container and configured to capture images of an exterior areain front of the door; and a second camera mounted on an interior surfaceof the door and configured to capture images of an area including theshelf.
 11. The storage container of claim 10, wherein the door includesa transparent panel through which the item is visible.
 12. The storagecontainer of claim 10, further comprising a scanner operable to scan amarking or barcode associated with the item, wherein, responsive to ascan of the marking by the scanner, the controller is configured torecord removal or return of the item.
 13. The storage container of claim10, wherein the controller is further configured to record access to andusage of the item based in part on images captured by the camera system.14. The storage container of claim 10, further comprising a second doorconfigured to selectively enable access to at least a second portion ofthe secured interior.
 15. The storage container of claim 14, wherein thecontroller is further configured to signal release of the door uponverification of the verification information but maintain the seconddoor in a secured state to prevent access to the second portion of thesecured interior while providing access to the shelf.
 16. The storagecontainer of claim 14, wherein the camera system includes a third cameramounted on an interior surface of the second door or inside thecontainer in view of the second door and configured to capture images ofan area including the second portion of the secured interior.
 17. Thestorage container of claim 10, further comprising a communicationsinterface configured to provide communications with a remote inventorymanagement system.
 18. The storage container of claim 10, furthercomprising a display mounted to an exterior of the door and configuredto display information related to at least one of inventory of the item,a condition of the item, or an access history associated with the item.19. A storage container, comprising: a first door configured to enableaccess to a first portion of a secured interior of the storage containerthat includes at least a first shelf that supports a first item; asecond door configured to enable access to a second portion of thesecured interior that includes at least a second shelf that supports asecond item; a lock mechanism configured to secure the first door andthe second door independently; a verification component integrated withthe storage container and configured to receive authenticationinformation from a user; a display mounted on an exterior of one of thefirst door or the second door and configured to display informationrelated to at least one item of inventory, usage of stored items, oraccess to stored items by one or more users; a camera system thatincludes at least a first camera mounted to the storage container andconfigured to capture images of an exterior area in front of the firstdoor and the second door, a second camera mounted on an interior surfaceof the first door and configured to capture images of an area includingthe first portion of the secured interior, and a third camera mounted onan interior surface of the second door and configured to capture imagesof an area including the second portion of the secured interior; ascanner operable to scan respective markings or barcodes associated withthe first item and the second item; and a controller configured to:verify authentication information received by the verification componentand independently signal the lock mechanism to release at least one ofthe first door or the second door; and monitor access to and usage ofthe first item and the second item based on the authenticationinformation, images captured by the camera system, and data captured bythe scanner.
 20. The storage container of claim 19, wherein the firstshelf and the second shelf are removably mounted within the firstportion and the second portion of the secured interior, respectively.